This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the ultimate celebration of fall flavors, combining the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake with the warm, comforting essence of caramel and fresh apples. Each bite promises a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced elements that will transport you to a cozy autumn afternoon.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith), peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Caramel Topping
- 1 cup (240ml) caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans
- Additional apple slices for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter
- Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan
- Bake for 10 minutes
- Cool completely
- Prepare Apple Mixture:
- Dice apples into small cubes
- Toss with cinnamon and nutmeg
- Set aside
- Make Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth
- Gradually add sugar
- Mix in eggs one at a time
- Add sour cream and vanilla
- Fold in spiced apple chunks
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Pour filling over cooled crust
- Bake for 60-70 minutes
- Center should be slightly jiggly
- Cool at room temperature
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours
- Finish and Decorate:
- Drizzle with caramel sauce
- Sprinkle chopped pecans
- Garnish with thin apple slices
- Drizzle additional caramel before serving
Nutritional Information
Per Serving
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 70 minutes Chilling Time: 4 hours Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes Servings: 12
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks
- Use a water bath for even baking
- Cool slowly to prevent surface cracking
- Refrigerate overnight for best texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Crust Alternatives:
- Use gingersnap cookies
- Add chopped nuts to crust
- Use gluten-free graham crackers
- Flavor Variations:
- Add bourbon to caramel sauce
- Use different apple varieties
- Incorporate cream cheese frosting
- Dietary Modifications:
- Use low-fat cream cheese
- Substitute with gluten-free alternatives
- Use dairy-free cream cheese
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I prevent cheesecake from cracking? A: Avoid overmixing, use room temperature ingredients, and bake in a water bath.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
Q3: What apples work best? A: Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness.
Q4: How long will the cheesecake keep? A: Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Q5: Can I freeze this cheesecake? A: Yes, freeze without caramel topping for up to 1 month.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 5 days
- Keep covered
- Add caramel just before serving
- Freeze without toppings
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight
Indulge in this Caramel Apple Cheesecake – a luxurious dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite!